U.S. Fatherhood Educational Institute (FEI) Praises Ruling by Czech Constitutional Court Promising to Make It Easier for Fathers to Gain Custody

CHICAGO, IL, May 7, 2010 – The Fatherhood Educational Institute (FEI) President Emeritus and attorney Jeffery M. Leving supports a recent ruling by the Czech Constitutional Court promising to make it easier for fathers to gain custody of their children. The Czech court states cases should be decided according to a child’s best interests. This is the law in the United States in most cases.

“This is a step in the right direction and one of hope for fathers in the Czech Republic. Preservation of the family unit also extends to preserving the father-child relationship, and preserving the emotional well-being of children,” Leving noted.

As the former president of the Fatherhood Educational Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting positive fatherhood involvement, Leving and his colleagues have spearheaded successful social and legislative reform in the United States so fathers can remain in the lives of their children. In 2000, Leving helped reunite Elian Gonzalez with his father in Cuba in what is probably the most celebrated child custody case in recent history. Leving’s historic international achievements in fighting for fathers’ rights have been recognized by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children with an Award of Merit. The Slovakian Mint designed and printed a commemorative coin created in his honor in 2007.

Millions of fathers are in the fight of their lives: the fight for custody of their children. Many wonder if they’ll ever again be an important part of their children’s lives. FEI is committed to helping develop a world where fathers are involved in the lives of their families, and to help develop families that are united, healthy and a vibrant entity.

“Fathers all over the world should have a right to be part of their children’s lives,” concluded Leving.

For information about the Fatherhood Educational Institute visit www.fatherhood-edu.org or call 312-795-9060.